The 27th annual Ace Awards ceremony, organized by the Accessories Council, took place at the glamorous Cipriani 42nd Street in New York. The star-studded event honored esteemed individuals in the fashion industry, including power couple Ciara and Russell Wilson for their House of LR&C venture, actress Julianne Hough, fashion executive Mickey Drexler, designer Dee Ocleppo, and renowned jeweler Alexis Bittar, among others.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed cocktails, mingled, and eagerly posed on the red carpet alongside notable presenters such as Kris Jenner, Tommy Hilfiger, Guillaume Tardy from Ralph Lauren, and Alex White from Elle magazine. There were plenty of photo opportunities with the honorees, including Fashionphile, Echo New York, Judith Leiber Couture, Wolverine, and Von Maur.
Dee Ocleppo, the creator of an evening-centric shoe and bag line, spoke to FashionNetwork.com about her brand’s journey and the importance of adaptability in the ever-changing fashion industry. Ocleppo noted the increase in demand for dressier styles in the post-Covid era and emphasized the transformative power of accessories in elevating an ordinary outfit. Dressed in a stunning green sequin dress by Etro, she exuded elegance and style.
Julianne Hough, rocking a vintage Pucci dress, expressed her deep love for accessories and how they contribute to shaping one’s personal style. She shared her excitement over three new projects she had received word of that day, including her return as a host on the popular show Dancing With the Stars. Hough mentioned how her style has evolved over the years due to her various career influences, and she now aims for an elevated and effortless look.
A noteworthy moment at the event came when fashion director Alex White made an impromptu outfit change, borrowing a sash from Viva Ruse, the founder of the non-profit movement Thank God for Abortion. White used this opportunity to show support for inclusivity and praised Alexis Bittar for his commitment to the cause. She shared a touching personal story about Bittar’s empathy and compassion towards her autistic daughter, highlighting his genuine character.
Bittar himself, who recently returned to the fashion scene after a six-year hiatus dedicated to fatherhood and philanthropy, imparted valuable advice to aspiring creatives and those aiming to make a comeback. He emphasized the significance of staying true to one’s authentic voice, showcasing the importance of individuality in the industry.
One of the honorees, Ciara, was recognized for her involvement with The House of LR&C, which is dedicated to giving back. She and her husband, Russell Wilson, donate three percent of the brand’s earnings to their Why Not You 501c non-profit organization. This organization’s mission is to uplift young people out of poverty and empower them to achieve their education and career goals. Additionally, The House of LR&C places a strong emphasis on sustainability, guided by Christine Day, formerly of Starbucks and Lululemon.
As the night came to a close, the Ace Awards ceremony proved to be a pivotal event for making industry connections and providing valuable networking opportunities. With a host of influential figures in attendance, the event celebrated the immense impact of accessories on the fashion industry, recognizing those individuals and brands that have made significant contributions.
Useful links:
– Accessories Council
– FashionNetwork.com
